Perhaps less common than the first two motivators, creativity is
nonetheless an important driving force in the gamer psyche. Though at first gaming doesn't seem
like a particularly creative act, what with its formalized rules and structured systems, there
is much more room for self expression than one might think. Some games play to this directly
through unique presentations or artistic themes. Music games and many of the Sim titles are
basically just expressive outlets that happen to be governed by a computerized system of rules.
Other creatives find their outlet in multiplayer gaming. The modern MMORPG sports equipment
and decorative combinations numbering well into the millions. The Creatively Motivated gamer
takes pleasure in designing how their character looks as well as changing how they interact
with their environment. Creatively Motivated gamers thrive when outlets are available. Anything
involving a high degree of expression, decoration, or a large abstract component draws them.
They wilt in gaming environments governed purely by numbers, and in those where presentation
is extremely homogeneous.
Though we sometimes don't like to admit it, escapism is a motivation that lives in the heart
of every gamer. By design, a game creates an inherently different world. |
